Event at Binghamton City Hall brings local Haitian-American community together
This national holiday celebrates the adoption of the Haitian flag in 1803 during the Haitian Revolution. Haitian independence came with the abolition of slavery and a sense of identity, liberty, and pride for its people.
The group wore white to symbolize unity and strength as they endured the rain to pause and honor the strength and sacrifice stitched into the flag.
Binghamton School Board Member-Elect Jesula Saintus says the day recognizes more than a historic moment, but a time of pride and tradition for the local Haitian community.
'Being Haitian is not just a nationality, it is a spiritual experience. We are culture, we are soul, we are the flavor in the food, the fire in the drums, the rhythm in the feet, the strength in the struggle, and the light in the darkest hour,' said Saintus.
Haiti was the first Latin-American country to gain independence and is also said to be the world's first Black Republic. The flag's colors come from the French flag, but with the white taken out to symbolize Haiti's decolonization.
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Event at Binghamton City Hall brings local Haitian-American community together
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- UPI
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